Interior Design Choices that Make You Happier and Healthier
In the post-pandemic world, where we’re all spending more time indoors, your home could be more than just a roof over your head — it might be the secret weapon for better health.
Just ask interior designer Diana Mui, the New York City founder of the Love House Foundation, who’s on a mission to turn cancer patients’ homes into healing sanctuaries that ease the mental and emotional strain of treatment.
“We all know things can happen, but you feel invincible until it does,” Mui, a patient at Mount Sinai Health System who recently entered remission herself after a five-year battle with breast cancer, told The Post. “I think the emotional toll is really what takes a lot of healing.”
Light it up
“When I go into space, the first thing I do is look at their windows,” said Mui, adding that she’s always striving to bring in as much natural light as possible.
Research suggests that natural daylight is more than just a mood booster — it’s a health powerhouse. It regulates sleep, increases energy, ramps up vitamin D production and can even give your immune system a much-needed boost.
Mui recommends opting for soft, warm lighting in the bedroom to spur feelings of calm. Diana Mui
In one study, people with more natural light indoors not only slept better but also felt more energized throughout the day. In another, participants exposed to high levels of sunlight during the day had a 20% lower risk of depression, with similar improvements in conditions like PTSD, anxiety and even bipolar disorder and psychosis.
The power of color
Color is more than just a design choice, it’s a powerful mood-altering tool.
Warm colors like red, orange and yellow can ignite everything from excitement and warmth to aggression and irritability. Meanwhile, cool tones like blue and green have a calming effect on the mind, but can also lead to feelings of sadness or indifference.
Color can even trigger physiological changes in the body. Take red, for example — it’s been shown to increase heart rate and blood pressure, likely because it’s often linked to danger or warning signs.
Décor that heals
Believe it or not, the right decor can have a profound impact on how you feel — especially if you’re dealing with illness.
“Pictures of people that you love on the wall are definitely a universal healing factor,” said Mui. “It adds a sense of personality and reminds you of the faces that bring you joy. You want to survive for them, too.”
But it’s not just about what you see — it’s also about what you feel. Mui suggests surrounding yourself with textiles that feel comforting and soothing to the skin. Think cozy blankets, plush throw pillows and soft rugs, which create an atmosphere of comfort and security.
Clutter, on the other hand, is a no-go. It’s been linked to elevated levels of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, and can lead to feelings of anxiety or even guilt. To keep stress at bay, Mui recommends opting for furniture with hidden storage — like cabinets or drawers — to conceal the chaos when things get a little messy.
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For an instant mood boost, consider bringing some greenery into your home. Research suggests that indoor plants like lavender can reduce stress and anxiety with their calming scent, while peace lilies purify the air and improve sleep by releasing oxygen during the day.
Ultimately, Mui said the most important thing when designing your space, especially if you’re navigating illness, is focusing on what makes you feel good.
“When you’re going through it, you need to think about what really makes you happy and just stick to that, not trends,” she said.
Conclusion
By incorporating these simple interior design choices into your daily life, you can create a space that nurtures your well-being and improves your overall health. Whether it’s bringing in natural light, using calming colors, or surrounding yourself with comforting textures, remember that your home is a sanctuary that can be tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
FAQs
Q: What is the most important thing to consider when designing my space?
A: Focus on what makes you feel good, whether it’s a specific color scheme, furniture arrangement, or decorative element.
Q: How can I bring more natural light into my home?
A: Opt for soft, warm lighting in the bedroom, and consider using strategically placed lamps and sconces to make up for limited natural light.
Q: What types of plants are best for indoor spaces?
A: Research suggests that indoor plants like lavender and peace lilies can reduce stress and anxiety, purify the air, and improve sleep.
